I got my rescue pup, Max, as a gift from my husband on our first anniversary. At first, I didn’t think much about dog boarding until Max had a rough weekend at a regular kennel. He came home stressed, dirty, and even called the wrong name. That’s when I realized that finding a good place for dogs really matters.
I started checking out lots of options. Some were small and cozy, some had big yards where dogs could run, and a few even had webcams so owners could watch at night. I also talked to other dog parents, read reviews, and visited spots all over town.
What I learned is this: the best dog boarding places don’t just watch your dog; they make them feel happy and safe. Some taught shy dogs new tricks, others had quiet spots for older pups to rest, and many sent cute photo updates to owners.
After months of visits (and a few funny mistakes), I made a list of the 7 best dog boarding services in Durham. Whether your pup needs extra care, a comfy bed, or just a fun place to play, these spots treat dogs like family.
How I Picked the Best Dog Boarding Services in Durham, NC
When my rescue dog, Max, came back from a weekend at a big kennel, he was nervous, dirty, and they even called him the wrong name. That’s when I knew I had to find something better. I didn’t just want a place that kept dogs; I wanted one where dogs feel safe, happy, and loved like family.
So, I started looking all over Durham for the best dog boarding spots. Here’s what I paid attention to:
Safety & Experience (35%) – I picked places with trained staff who know how to care for shy, anxious, or special-needs dogs. Some, like Bull City Pet Sitting and Camp Bow Wow, even have staff watching dogs 24/7.
Clean & Cozy Spaces (25%) – No tiny cages or dirty rooms. I wanted big, clean spaces. Creature Comforts Inn was great because the rooms were comfy and spotless.
What Locals Say (20%) – I read reviews from Durham dog parents who trusted these places during trips, work, and emergencies.
Extras & Transparency (15%) – I liked places that sent photo updates, had easy drop-off, and gave fun perks like free baths or training.
Emergency Plans (5%) – Extra points if they worked with vets, had backup power, or storm plans.
I even visited most of these places myself, from the big open yards at DogWoods Retreat to the cozy, home-like feel of Suite Paws. I asked lots of questions, watched how the staff treated the dogs, and tried a few out with Max (he was patient, even with the less-good ones).
After months of checking, I made a list of the Top 7 Dog Boarding Services in Durham. These are the ones that really care for your dog, not just watch them.
Average Cost of Dog Boarding Services in Durham, NC
| Service | Average Cost | Details |
| Standard Boarding | $47–$60 per night | Basic overnight care with playtime and standard accommodations. For example, The Pet Wagon Hotel charges $47 per night, including daycare playtime. |
| Premium Suites | $61–$85 per night | Private suites with additional amenities. Sunny Acres Pet Resort offers luxury boarding at $61 per night, while GoDog’s large suite is priced at $85 per night. |
| Daycare | $28–$38 per day | Supervised group play. GoDog Durham charges $38 for a full day and $28 for a half-day. |
| Bathing/Grooming | $35–$90 per session | Includes bathing and basic grooming. Dog Tales offers baths starting at $35 for dogs under 45 lbs. |
| Additional Services | Varies | Extras like extra playtime, cuddle sessions, or special treats. GoDog offers add-ons such as extra outdoor time or playtime with staff for $12–$14. |
Please remember that these prices are general estimates. The actual cost can vary based on factors like your dog’s size, specific needs, and the chosen facility’s offerings. It’s always a good idea to reach out directly to the boarding facilities to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for your dog’s stay.
7 Best Dog Boarding Services in Durham, NC: A Quick Look and My Review
- 1 Sunny Acres Pet Resort – rated 4.8 out of 5
- 2 The Pet Wagon Hotel – rated 4.7 out of 5
- 3 The Barkmore House – rated 4.7 out of 5
- 4 GoDog Durham – rated 4.6 out of 5
- 5 Creature Comforts Inn – rated 4.4 out of 5
- 6 Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding – rated 4.4 out of 5
- 7 Camp Bow Wow – rated 4.0 out of 5
#1 Sunny Acres Pet Resort
Sunny Acres Pet Resort, just outside Durham, NC, is a spacious pet care center set on nearly seven acres of open land, designed to keep dogs safe, relaxed, and happy. What stood out to me most is how the facility balances comfort, play, and security all in one place. The staff are trained in pet first aid and CPR, and they’re also part of Dog Gurus, a group that focuses on safe, positive play. When I walked through the grounds, everything felt calm and well-arranged, the kind of setting where dogs could enjoy themselves without worry. The indoor areas stay climate-controlled, while the outdoor play fields are wide, fully fenced, and secured with double gates so every dog is always protected.
The boarding suites are some of the largest I’ve seen in this area, giving each dog plenty of space to stretch and rest. I appreciated how they keep quieter areas separate for shy or older dogs, while more social pups have their own lively zones. This made me feel that every personality is considered. The staff also live on the property and keep watch with 24-hour camera surveillance, which gave me extra peace of mind. Everything I toured—from the grooming rooms to the play yards—was clean and well-cared-for, and tours are available by appointment for owners who want to see it all themselves.
Sunny Acres offers daycare, boarding, and grooming services, so everything your dog might need is available in one place. Dogs can run through grassy yards, cool off in wading pools, or nap in shaded rest spots. I noticed how relaxed the dogs looked after playtime and how kindly the staff interacted with each one, checking in with care. Prices aren’t listed online, but what stood out to me was their clear focus on safety, comfort, and steady attention. To me, Sunny Acres Pet Resort feels like an open-air retreat where dogs are treated with the same respect and care as family.
| Business Name | Sunny Acres Pet Resort |
| Owner Name | N/A |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.7/5 |
| Best known for | – 7-acre countryside setting with large fenced outdoor grassy fields. – Spacious suites, some as large as 6′ wide x 18′ long. – Supervised play areas with toys, wading pools, and playground equipment. – Staff certified in Pet First Aid and CPR. – Around-the-clock camera surveillance and on-site employees for security. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Grooming |
| Website | sunnyacrespetresort.com |
| Telephone | (984) 246-0224 |
| info@SunnyAcresPetResort.com | |
| Address | 5908 US-70 (Hillsborough Rd), Durham, NC 27705 |
| Hours | Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM-12:00 PM, 1:00-6:00 PM Saturday: 7:00-11:00 AM Sunday: 4:00-5:00 PM |
#2 The Pet Wagon Hotel
The Pet Wagon Hotel in Durham, NC, is a family-run pet care facility that has earned a strong reputation for attentive and personalized care. What makes it stand out is how it combines safety, cleanliness, and thoughtful attention for both dogs and cats. The staff are trained to care for pets of all personalities and needs, and they take the time to understand each animal’s routine rather than treating every pet the same. The facility includes multiple indoor and outdoor play areas, artificial turf yards, and a nature field for hikes, while boarding areas are climate-controlled and kept clean with careful sanitation. Cats have their own separate, quiet space to stay comfortable and calm. When I visited with my own dog, I immediately noticed how well-organized and welcoming the facility felt, and how pets seemed happy and relaxed. The Pet Wagon provides photo updates during stays, and extras like free baths for stays of five nights or more, as well as no additional charges for playtime, belly rubs, or giving medications, make it easy for pet owners to feel confident. Reviews from local pet owners highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff and how excited their pets are to return, which I experienced myself when my dog was eager to come back. Overall, The Pet Wagon Hotel stood out to me as a safe, clean, and caring place where pets receive attention, comfort, and respect.
| Business Name | The Pet Wagon Hotel |
| Owner Name | Owned and managed by Juan Galvis and his wife, Maria Sol Arenas |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | – Over 10 years of service in the Triangle area with a strong reputation in the industry. – Relaxed environment with accommodations tailored to each pet’s individual needs. – Multiple supervised exercise/play areas to match dogs’ temperaments and play styles. – Enormous nature field available for off-leash nature hikes with staff. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Dog Training |
| Website | thepetwagon.com |
| Telephone | (919) 757- 6085 |
| thepetwagonhotel@gmail.com | |
| Address | 3215 Old Chapel Hill Rd, Durham, NC 27707 |
| Hours | Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
#3 The Barkmore House
The Barkmore House in Durham, NC, is a small, home-based dog care service that has built trust in the local community for its warm and personal approach. What makes it unique is that it feels more like leaving your dog with a trusted neighbor than checking them into a large kennel. The owner, Hollie Pavlica, has more than 30 years of experience caring for dogs and runs the business directly from her home. She shifted into full-time pet care after her earlier academic career, and her focus is on making sure each dog feels safe, comfortable, and loved while their owners are away.
The Barkmore House offers both daycare and overnight boarding, with flexibility for last-minute requests, which is something many busy pet owners value. Instead of using a standard routine for every dog, Hollie adjusts the care to match each dog’s needs. Some dogs need more play, some need more rest, and some just want a little extra attention, and that’s exactly what they get here. Since the care takes place in a real home and yard, it provides a familiar, relaxed setting instead of the stress that can come with bigger facilities.
When I looked at feedback from other pet owners, I noticed how often they praised the personal touch. Neighbors on Nextdoor described Hollie as very loving, with one family sharing how she cared for all four of their dogs and even sent them a framed picture of one pup as a keepsake. On Yelp and Instagram, people describe The Barkmore House as a warm, home-like place for boarding, and many repeat customers say their dogs are happy and relaxed when they return.
What stood out most to me was how much trust the community has in this small-scale approach. Hollie’s long experience, the positive stories shared by neighbors, and the flexibility to handle last-minute plans make it clear why so many local dog owners recommend her. While details like pricing, overnight policies, and exact facility features aren’t clearly listed, the overall impression is that The Barkmore House provides comfort, care, and a safe environment where dogs are treated as family.
| Business Name | The Barkmore House |
| Owner Name | Owned and managed by Hollie Pavlica |
| Google My Business Rating | 5/5 |
| Best known for | – Provides a safe and caring environment for dogs, ensuring they are comfortable and happy while their owners are away. – Offers personalized care tailored to each dog’s unique needs. – Features 24/7 supervision, daily playtime, and regular exercise. |
| Services | Dog Daycare and Dog Boarding |
| Website | thebarkmorehouse.com |
| Telephone | (984) 312-4497 |
| hello@thebarkmorehouse.com | |
| Address | 3706 Kilgo Dr, Durham, NC 27705, United States |
| Hours | Monday – Saturday: 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
#4 GoDog Durham
GoDog in Durham, NC, is a full-service pet care facility that focuses on keeping dogs happy and healthy. What makes it different from a typical kennel is its focus on hospitality, making each dog feel comfortable and cared for rather than just a place to stay. Their campuses are designed with dogs in mind, featuring indoor and outdoor play areas, safe surfaces like anti-slip flooring, sound control, and even streaming cameras so owners can check in.
At GoDog, dogs can enjoy daycare, boarding, bathing, grooming, and positive-reinforcement training. Daycare includes structured play and exercise, while boarding offers a “second home” experience with individual rooms and monitored social time. Bathing and grooming happen on-site, and training programs help dogs learn basic cues and improve behavior. Optional extras like extra outdoor time, cuddle sessions, or emailed photos allow owners to customize their dog’s experience.
The Durham Garrett Road campus has clear health and safety rules. Dogs must be vaccinated for core illnesses, and there are age and spay/neuter requirements for daycare. Female dogs in heat are not allowed, and every new dog must pass a temperament assessment to ensure proper socialization. Staff are trained to handle emergencies and will contact a vet and the owner if something serious occurs.
Prices are transparent at this campus, with daycare starting at $28, basic baths at $25, and additional services like nail trims or extra attention available for an added fee. Reservations are required, and deposits are needed during peak times, with clear policies on cancellations.
From my observation, GoDog stands out because of its wide range of services, thoughtful campus design, and strong attention to safety and cleanliness. Reviews show dogs enjoy their time, and owners appreciate the staff’s professionalism and the ability to tailor care. It feels like a place where dogs are not only safe but genuinely happy and well-cared-for.
| Business Name | GoDog Durham |
| Owner Name | GoDog was founded in 2018 by Jess and Ben Eberdt. |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.4/5 |
| Best known for | – State-of-the-art boarding and daycare center. – Offers a range of grooming services, including basic baths and deluxe treatments. – Provides a membership-based outdoor dog park and bar where humans and dogs can socialize together. |
| Services | Dog Daycare, Dog Boarding and Dog Grooming |
| Website | godoghq.com |
| Telephone | (919) 246-7530 |
| thepetwagonhotel@gmail.com | |
| Address | 4350 Garrett Rd, Durham, NC 27707 |
| Hours | – Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
#5 Creature Comforts Inn
Creature Comforts Inn in Durham, NC, is a pet boarding and daycare facility that focuses on providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for dogs and cats. The facility is located at 200 W Cornwallis Road, right next to Cornwallis Road Animal Hospital, which makes veterinary care nearby if needed.
Dogs at Creature Comforts Inn stay in climate-controlled indoor runs with sizes based on their weight. They receive fresh bedding, three walks per day, and daily cleaning. Longer stays of more than five nights include a complimentary go-home bath.
The Inn offers full-day and half-day doggy daycare that is structured and supervised for safe social play. New dogs must pass a free temperament evaluation, and those with special behavior may get one-on-one play sessions twice daily. All daycare dogs must be vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and have a recent negative fecal test. Packages and optional add-ons like nail trims, teeth brushing, or enrichment activities are available.
Creature Comforts Inn maintains clear health, safety, and feeding policies. Medications must be labeled, and all bedding is provided to maintain cleanliness. Drop-offs and pick-ups follow set hours, and a deposit is required for boarding.
From my visit and reviews, the Inn feels well-organized and welcoming. Pets seem happy and socialized, and owners express trust in the staff. Creature Comforts Inn stands out as a safe, clean, and caring place where pets receive attention, comfort, and personalized care.
| Business Name | Creature Comforts Inn |
| Owner Name | Ms. Trisha Conger serves as the Manager of Marketing, and Ms. Rachel McKee is the Business Manager |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | – Provides a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for pets. – Offers spacious accommodations for both dogs and cats. – Adjacent to Cornwallis Road Animal Hospital, ensuring prompt medical attention if needed. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Bathing Services |
| Website | creaturecomfortsinn.com |
| Telephone | (919) 489-1490 |
| N/A | |
| Address | 200 W Cornwallis Rd, Durham, NC 27707 |
| Hours | – Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Sunday: Closed |
#6 Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding
Dog Tales Day Camp & Boarding in Durham, NC, is a pet care facility that focuses on giving dogs safe, personalized, and engaging experiences. Located at 1204 Patterson Road, the property spans about 15 acres with hiking trails, creek beds, and expansive play areas. This natural setting allows dogs to explore, exercise, and enjoy more variety than typical indoor or fenced play spaces.
Day camp provides full-day and overnight stays where dogs receive structured play, supervision, and socialization. The staff keeps the number of dogs low, around 12, so each dog gets focused attention. New dogs are screened for health and temperament to ensure safe group play, and dogs with special needs may receive extra one-on-one sessions. Feeding and medications are handled according to owner instructions at no extra cost. Owners also receive updates and photos to see how their pets are doing.
Dog Tales is owner-operated, which allows hands-on oversight and careful attention to each dog’s routines and habits. Their approach emphasizes quality over quantity, low volume, high human contact, and all-inclusive care, including multiple play sessions, cuddle time, and tailored hikes.
From my experience and research, the facility stands out because of its natural outdoor spaces, small group sizes, and attentive staff. Dogs seemed happy, active, and well-supervised, and owners reported confidence in leaving their pets there. Personally, I noticed how organized and welcoming the facility felt, and it was clear that pets receive genuine care, attention, and plenty of fun throughout their stay.
| Business Name | Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding |
| Owner Name | The business is managed by Ms. Samantha Bondo, Mr. Mark Bondo, Ms. Jessica Tucker, and Mr. David Tucker Jr. |
| Google My Business Rating | 5.0/5 |
| Best known for | – Nestled on 15 acres of scenic land with hiking trails, creek beds, and spacious doggie play areas. – Owner-operated facility focused on keeping dogs safe, active, and happy. – Small, home-based kennel featuring 12 comfortable suites, allowing for personalized care and attention. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Bathing Services |
| Website | dogtalesnc.com |
| Telephone | (919) 691-7613 |
| dogtalesnc@gmail.com | |
| Address | 1204 Patterson Road, Durham, NC 27704 |
| Hours | N/A |
#7 Camp Bow Wow
Camp Bow Wow in Durham, NC, is a dog care franchise that aims to provide dogs with a fun, safe, and engaging “camp” experience. It offers dog daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, and enrichment activities. The brand emphasizes that dogs should enjoy socialization, exercise, and mental stimulation while their owners are away, not just stay in a kennel.
Their Durham facility includes spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, climate-controlled cabins, and comfortable cots with fleece blankets for resting dogs. All-day play is included in boarding, so dogs stay active rather than being confined. Certified staff, called Camp Counselors, are trained in pet first aid and CPR, and the location provides live webcams so owners can check in on their pets. Dogs also receive medication if needed, and basic grooming is available.
When my dog Max spent a weekend at a local kennel, he returned anxious and unkempt. I knew I needed a place where he would feel safe and cared for. Camp Bow Wow in Durham offered that for him. The staff made him feel comfortable, and he seemed happy and relaxed when I picked him up.
| Business Name | Camp Bow Wow North Durham |
| Owner Name | Mac Renfro and Marianna Renfro |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | – Provides a fun, safe, and reliable environment for dogs, featuring indoor and outdoor play yards. – Offers live webcams for pet parents to monitor their dogs – All-inclusive pricing without hidden fees |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Dog Training and Dog Grooming |
| Website | campbowwow.com |
| Telephone | (984) 384-6257 |
| N/A | |
| Address | 4310 Bennett Memorial Road, Durham, NC 27705 |
| Hours | – Monday – Saturday: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
A Few Tips Before You Book Dog Boarding in Durham, NC
- Check their cleaning routine: A good place should never smell bad. I once went to a kennel that stank, and I never went back. Places like Creature Comforts Inn or Camp Bow Wow keep things fresh and clean.
- Look at recent customer photos: Check reviews on Yelp or Google. Look at pictures of the play yards, rooms, and staff with the dogs. If the dogs look sad or the space looks messy, that’s a red flag.
- Ask about their safety protocols: Don’t be shy—ask about emergency plans, how many staff watch the dogs, and how they handle medicine. Bull City Pet Sitting and Suite Paws are great at explaining their safety rules.
- Read reviews from the last 3 months: Don’t just trust old reviews. Check the last 3 months on Rover.com or Yelp. Places like Happy Tails Veterinary Emergency Clinic stay solid, but it’s always good to see what’s current.
- Book a short stay first: Do a daycare day or one overnight before booking a long trip. Services like The Pet Wagon and Rover.com make it easy to test things out.
Safety Note
All the places on this list follow Durham County’s boarding rules and are properly licensed, but here’s how to stay extra careful:
• Check vaccination rules: Good spots like Creature Comforts Inn and Eno Animal Hospital require your dog to be up-to-date on rabies, distemper, and parasite checks—no exceptions.
• Ask about staff training: Find out if the staff is trained in pet first aid and CPR. Happy Tails Veterinary Emergency Clinic even has a special certification (AAHA).
• Watch out for outdoor risks: Don’t choose a place that ties dogs outside near streets. That’s not allowed by Durham’s animal laws.
Better to be safe than sorry, right? A quick call to check these details will make sure your dog’s stay is both safe and fun.
Local Expert Opinion
Dr. Lisa, a vet at Happy Tails Veterinary Emergency Clinic, says,
“Dog boarding in Durham has really improved over the last few years. Places like Camp Bow Wow and Creature Comforts Inn now offer 24/7 care, work with vets for medical boarding, and even have live cameras so pet owners can watch their dogs. The competition has made everyone focus more on safety, cleanliness, and giving each pet personal care—it’s a great thing for both pets and their owners.”
Final Thoughts on the 7 Best Dog Boarding in Durham, NC
After visiting lots of dog boarding places in Durham, I realized there’s a perfect spot for every kind of dog. Some dogs love running and playing all day, some prefer peace and quiet, and some need a little extra love or care. No matter your dog’s personality, Durham has a place for them.
Sunny Acres Pet Resort has big outdoor yards, perfect for dogs who love to run and explore. The Barkmore House feels more like a cozy home, great for dogs who enjoy soft beds and calm days. GoDog Durham makes life easier for busy dog parents, offering daycare and boarding that fit any schedule.
What I loved most is that all of these places are very clean, safe, and staffed by people who genuinely care. They take time to get to know each dog, making sure they’re happy while you’re away. Local pet owners trust these facilities, and reviews show plenty of wagging tails and happy dogs.
So, if you need a place for your dog while you’re on a trip or at work, don’t worry. Your pup will be in good hands—and might even get a little vacation of their own!
